How to Build Good Credit History Using a Credit Card

Whether you're an OFW working abroad, an entrepreneur running a small business, or a retiree managing expenses on a fixed income—building a good credit history¹ is essential.

A positive credit score can help you qualify for loans, get better interest rates, and even access premium financial products.

The best part? You can start building credit simply by using the right credit card, the right way. Here's how you can strategically build your credit and improve your financial future depending on your lifestyle needs. 

Smart Credit Moves for OFWs

Living and working overseas often means juggling financial responsibilities in two countries. As an OFW, managing your credit while abroad helps not only with international transactions but also secures your financial reputation back home.

Tips:

• Use Philippine-issued cards that support peso billing for global purchases.
• Set auto-reminders or enroll in autopay to never miss a due date.
• Monitor transactions regularly using mobile banking apps.

Best Credit Cards for OFWs:

• Security Bank World Mastercard – Enjoy airport lounge access, travel insurance, and exclusive airport merchant deals.
• Metrobank World Mastercard® – Earn rewards on overseas purchases and discounts on luxury dining deals.
• PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard – Take advantage of no annual, late payment and overlimit fees.

Establishing Credit History for SMEs and Entrepreneurs

For small business owners and freelancers, credit cards can be more than just payment tools. When used responsibly, cards can help track business expenses, boost cash flow, and even handle government payments.

Tips:

• Open a separate credit card solely for business use to simplify tracking and accounting.
• Pay taxes, utilities, and digital ads with your card to earn rewards while managing bills.
• Always pay on time to build your business’ credit standing.

Best Credit Cards for Entrepreneurs & Freelancers:

• HSBC Red Mastercard – Great for those looking for accelerated rewards on shopping, dining, and overseas spend.
• AUB Classic Mastercard – Offers lifetime no annual fee and flexible payment schedules to help manage irregular cash flow.
  
  

Credit Tips for Young Adults and Students

Starting your financial journey as a young adult means making smart money choices early. A well-managed credit card can serve as a solid foundation for future financial opportunities like car loans, home financing, or business capital.

Tips:

• Choose beginner-friendly cards with low fees and clear reward systems.
• Pay your card in full every month to avoid interest and show financial discipline.
• Limit usage to essential purchases like food, bills, or learning tools.
• Keep your credit utilization² low—ideally below 30% of your limit.

Best Credit Cards for Young Adults & Professionals:

• Maybank Visa Classic – Perfect for first-timers, with waived annual fees in year one, free reward points, and dual currency support.
• UnionBank U Visa Platinum – A solid entry-level card with perks like insurance rebates and global acceptance.
• Metrobank Titanium Mastercard – Offers dining and shopping rewards for everyday spenders with growing financial independence.
  
  

Seniors’ Guide to Credit History Building

Senior citizens can still build or maintain a good credit history—even on a retirement budget. The right credit card offers peace of mind, rebates on essential purchases, and simplified features that make financial management easier.

Tips:

• Use credit cards for essential purchases like medicine, groceries, or utilities.
• Choose cards with no or waived annual fees to avoid extra costs.
• Set up auto-debit or schedule payments to avoid missed dues.
• Consider sharing supplementary cards with family for easy budgeting.

Best Credit Cards for Senior Citizens:

• BPI Amore Cashback Card – Get practical rebates at supermarkets, drugstores, and department stores.
• AUB Easy Mastercard – Lifetime no annual fee and custom billing—ideal for retirees managing flexible spending.
  
  

Building Credit on a Budget for Low-Income Earners

Even with a modest income, you can build a strong credit history by choosing the right credit card and using it responsibly. Many banks now offer beginner-friendly cards that don’t require high salaries or large deposits.

Tips:

• Look for credit cards with no annual fee and low income requirements (₱15,000–₱20,000/month).
• Use your card only for essentials like groceries or phone bills.
• Pay more than the minimum amount due each month to avoid interest charges and show responsible usage.

Best Credit Cards for Low-Income Earners:

• AUB Classic Mastercard – Lifetime no annual fee, customizable payment schedule and low income requirement starting at ₱21,000 per month.
• RCBC Flex Visa – Earn rewards points on two preferred categories.
  
  

Freelancers’ Guide to Responsible Credit Use

Freelancers may not always have predictable cash flow, but that doesn’t mean you can’t build strong credit. By showing consistent repayment and smart usage, you can gradually establish a positive credit history—even without a fixed employer.

Tips:

• Set aside a portion of each payment you receive to cover your credit card bills.
• Use your card for tools or subscriptions related to your work (e.g., Canva, Zoom, domain hosting) to keep spending relevant and productive.
• Avoid carrying a balance—pay off what you spend each month to show financial discipline.

Best Credit Cards for Freelancers:

• UnionBank Rewards Credit Card – Offers lifetime no annual fee and non-expiring reward points on shopping and dining spend here and abroad.
• BPI Edge Mastercard - Enjoy flexible installment plans and payment options as well as deals and discounts.

Compare Before You Commit

Before signing up for any credit card, take the time to compare features, fees, and benefits across banks. Choose a card that fits your lifestyle and financial goals—not just the one with the most hype.

Comparing credit cards via Moneymax makes it easy to view your options side by side.

Remember, the right card can help you build your credit, manage your finances, and unlock better financial opportunities in the long run. Don’t just spend—spend smart.

Sources:

• ^[1] What Is A Credit History? (Investopedia, September 2024)
• ^[2] 3 Ways To Keep Your Credit Utilization Low And Boost Your Credit Score

  (CNBC, October 2024)